The back primarily functions to provide support to the upper body, protect the spinal cord, allow flexibility and provide a point of attachment for muscles and ligaments, which help the body move.

The lower back, lumbar area, is a common area for injury and disease. It is composed of five vertebrae (L1-L5) with associated disks, nerve roots, muscles, and ligaments. The vertebrae disks in the lower back have the greatest load to bear and are the largest. A healthy spine is properly aligned, having three natural curves, balanced position, supported by a strong back, abdominal, buttock, and leg muscles.

Common back injuries and conditions that we treat include:

Lower back pain due to poor posture, lack of exercise, or obesity.

Ruptured disks – When a disk ruptures, the soft center of the disk may bulge and press on nerve endings, or it may rupture (herniate) through the capsure and pinch the spinal nerves.

Osteoarthritis – Osteoarthritis affects the disks and bones of the back in varying degrees. It narrows the disks and can cause irritating spurs on the vertebral bodies producing pain.